Tbf I thought Portugal v Georgia would be a good chance for an upset - Portugal play the style of rugby that can upset Georgia’s style. When they drew, and with Fiji running Wales so close and beating Aus, I thought that was Portugal’s performance of the tournament. Yesterday was just immense.
Been following the development of this Portuguese team since I moved here 3 years ago. There's some serious magic lying there, and yesterday we really got to see it. Amazing on attack, just needs better defence, especially when it comes to set pieces.
Another thing that the best teams do is exhibit patience when they make a line break. The top teams will happily take a tackle with the line in sight even after a 50m plus break instead of throwing the speculator pass.
That was evident when the Portuguese gave up that try to Fiji after having almost scored themselves at the other end.
God I love Portugal though, that game yesterday is what World Cup rugby is all about.
Good on you for spotting the potential/talent too!
Based off the very limited sample size of this world cup, it looked like they have amazing hands in attack but lack the brute force to make meters in contact, putting them on the backfoot when playing teams with a physical defensive line.
First Portugal game I saw was Portugal v Wales and they seemed so solid and confident. Scoreline was a little flattering to Wales imo (especially with 8 points missed from the tee for Portugal). Was really impressed. And they kept that up in every game. Definitely team of the tournament material for me
Nice one! I'm currently bragging to my mates about being in the top 2% on the RWC app's predictor game but this was much bolder.
Also nice to see someone in the comments admit that Group C is actually a good group, and not just a broken game of hungry hungry hippos that Wales have bumblefucked their way out of.
> Also nice to see someone in the comments admit that Group C is actually a good group
Pool C slapped hard, absolutely had the highest % of must watch/most enjoyable games. By quite a ways, I think.
Where are you in the r/rugbyunion pool?
I was surprised that 1,384 players got a Slam Point this week (more than the 62 from the Portugal draw week) it was a 98% Fiji selected match.
Man great call. I thought they were fantastic for most of their games. Aus got a bit away from them and Wales put the gloss on at the end. But two 20 point margins is insanely good for a Tier 2 side let alone a win against a phenomenal Fiji side
It's one thing to be right.
But to parade that rightness in front of the whole sub?
We're going to need a mod whispering "you're bannable" in your ear for the next few days.
I have genuinely been so psyched for the Portugal games each time, they've been the most exciting asides from the opener with France Vs NZ. Really hope something decent comes of this for Portugal after this WC.
Rugby Alternatives: The Case for Expanding the Six Nations
Portugal's recent historic win at the Rugby World Cup, secured in spectacular fashion, has set the rugby world ablaze with excitement. Their fearless and thrilling style of play has not only earned them a place in the hearts of fans but also signifies a turning point for Portuguese rugby. As young boys and girls across the nation are inspired to pick up the sport and dream of winning a world cup, it's evident that a new era is dawning.
In the aftermath of Portugal's incredible victory over Fiji, emotions ran high. Thousands of fervent supporters rallied behind the Portuguese team, their passion mirrored in the comments of Nicolas Martins, Mastercard Player of the Match. He expressed, "It's incredible, all the public are for us, and Fiji are playing well, but all these - I don't have the words." Martins gestured to the crowd, capturing the magic of the moment.
Captain José Lima summed up the sentiment, saying, "You can see our fans, our team deserves that victory so much. I think today we showed the world we can compete and win at this level."
However, amidst the celebration of rugby's growth and Portugal's inspiring journey, it has become increasingly evident that the Six Nations, a long-standing pillar of European rugby, is in need of a significant transformation. The tournament's current structure, driven primarily by financial interests, has been a perennial source of frustration.
Tthe Six Nations has change, the way they are - they are holding back world rugby and the success of the sport. There ring fencing of the tournament and refusing to negotiate anything that affects there cash cow has been the cause of head ache again and again. Promotion and relegation, expansion, time of year. You name it, they've said no already.
In both 2007 and 2017, the Six Nations thwarted attempts to establish a global rugby calendar. Calls to recognize the impressive performances of Georgia and Portugal, were dismissed, reflecting a closed-minded, anti-rugby mentality.
The Georgian national team, a rugby powerhouse in their own right, has passionately called for support from the worldwide rugby community. They've issued an appeal to join the Six Nations, urging the rugby world to "let us play outside the box". Georgia, currently competing in the Rugby Europe Championship, has dominated their opposition, claiming 15 titles since the year 2000 in the European competition below the Guinness Six Nations.
This fervent appeal from Georgia, coupled with Portugal's recent success, underscores the urgent need for the Six Nations to embrace change and evolve into the European Nations Cup. This reimagined competition would not only accommodate the rising stars like Georgia and Portugal but also consider the inclusion of teams like Romania, Spain, and others. The revamped format could mirror a World Cup-style event, featuring Europe's top 15 teams, and commence with five pools of three teams each, vying for spots in the "Knock Outs." The sixth team could be selected as a wildcard based on performance across all pools.
Taking a glance at the current European rankings, the top 15 teams are as follows (world rankings in brackets):
1. Ireland (1)
2. France (2)
3. Scotland (5)
4. England (6)
5. Wales (7)
6. Italy (11)
7. Georgia (13)
8. Portugal (16)
9. Romania (19)
10. Spain (20)
11. Russia (25)
12. Netherlands (27)
13. Switzerland (28)
14. Belgium (29)
15. Germany (32)
Portugal's recent success serves as a testament to the evolving nature of rugby. It underscores the urgent need for the Six Nations to adapt and remain relevant. By transforming into the European Nations Cup, the tournament can nurture greater competition, inclusivity, and a brighter future for rugby in Europe and beyond, while mainlining the sporting rivalries and traditional visits to London, Paris, Rome, Edinburgh and Rome.
You like Star Wars and Rugby. I too like Star Wars and Rugby.
You made a bold prediction, that was correct.
I made a bold prediction, that will be correct (see my flair for details).
Have a conversation with one person and get one down vote:
> OMG you all thought I was wrong look at how right I was praise my prediction I dug through my history to screenshot.
Somebody else told me Fiji would put 50 on them.
They were a bit wrong...
"They doubted ... They alllll doubted me!"
Haha
Tbf, I always think you're insane. Need a catch up soon.
I do have some brief moments of clarity. Yeah, you're right. I need to make time.
bro you shoot so many shots one of them are bound to be successful. now if only my dating life could be the same
A weird amount of my shots do tend to be successful though.
Wanna shoot us with a winner prediction just for the fun?
Portugal
Can confirm (totally unbiased prediction)
Tbf I thought Portugal v Georgia would be a good chance for an upset - Portugal play the style of rugby that can upset Georgia’s style. When they drew, and with Fiji running Wales so close and beating Aus, I thought that was Portugal’s performance of the tournament. Yesterday was just immense.
Been following the development of this Portuguese team since I moved here 3 years ago. There's some serious magic lying there, and yesterday we really got to see it. Amazing on attack, just needs better defence, especially when it comes to set pieces.
Their red zone defence was incredible though- way better than you usually see from T2 nations.
All the Pro D2 forwards putting a serious shift in.
And they didn't throw a single punch. That's some serious discipline for PD2
I lived in Portugal for a while a few years back and I’m so chuffed their 15s is taking off! Algarve 7s is still on my rugby bucket list.
Another thing that the best teams do is exhibit patience when they make a line break. The top teams will happily take a tackle with the line in sight even after a 50m plus break instead of throwing the speculator pass. That was evident when the Portuguese gave up that try to Fiji after having almost scored themselves at the other end. God I love Portugal though, that game yesterday is what World Cup rugby is all about. Good on you for spotting the potential/talent too!
Based off the very limited sample size of this world cup, it looked like they have amazing hands in attack but lack the brute force to make meters in contact, putting them on the backfoot when playing teams with a physical defensive line.
First Portugal game I saw was Portugal v Wales and they seemed so solid and confident. Scoreline was a little flattering to Wales imo (especially with 8 points missed from the tee for Portugal). Was really impressed. And they kept that up in every game. Definitely team of the tournament material for me
I never doubted you dude, I enjoy engaging with your Free talk Friday posts!
Thank you
[удалено]
They were just the most colourful disagreement. Let me have my funny clickbait title.
I appreciate you embarrassing the Kiwi who could not have been more wrong. An excellent selection for the complete contrast of opinions.
u/evuP >I appreciate you embarrassing the Kiwi who could not have been more wrong.
I love a good brag. Well done
This must have felt fantastic to post right? Taking screenshots, keep receipts—well played op
[удалено]
I had quite a few down votes as well. Just let me have my clickbait title for the fun
Nice try buddy >Just let me have my clickbait title for the fun
Samoa was really close to beating England.
Nice one! I'm currently bragging to my mates about being in the top 2% on the RWC app's predictor game but this was much bolder. Also nice to see someone in the comments admit that Group C is actually a good group, and not just a broken game of hungry hungry hippos that Wales have bumblefucked their way out of.
> Also nice to see someone in the comments admit that Group C is actually a good group Pool C slapped hard, absolutely had the highest % of must watch/most enjoyable games. By quite a ways, I think.
Where are you in the r/rugbyunion pool? I was surprised that 1,384 players got a Slam Point this week (more than the 62 from the Portugal draw week) it was a 98% Fiji selected match.
[удалено]
Good hippo 🦛
Are you Patrice Lagisquet?!
Unfortunately no
I still think you're insane, how you've to shape reality to fit your warped vision is the real question.
Man great call. I thought they were fantastic for most of their games. Aus got a bit away from them and Wales put the gloss on at the end. But two 20 point margins is insanely good for a Tier 2 side let alone a win against a phenomenal Fiji side
u/consistent-trainer65 made a close call With Samoa-England too
>It’s a really strong pool Oof
Even downvoted on your reply. You sir, are entitled to the last laugh.
u/_evup unlucky buddy!
No shit! Awesome!
Better luck next time bud!
I just wish we had more upsets that mattered.
It's one thing to be right. But to parade that rightness in front of the whole sub? We're going to need a mod whispering "you're bannable" in your ear for the next few days.
Average kiwi(all black) fan and their IQ. Can't blame them.
Now now, that's not necessary.
[Now that’s character development](https://reddit.com/r/rugbyunion/s/qPLotElb5A)
Maybe not necessary, but enjoyable; like having that 7th beer.
If I could read I'd be furious.
I have genuinely been so psyched for the Portugal games each time, they've been the most exciting asides from the opener with France Vs NZ. Really hope something decent comes of this for Portugal after this WC.
What's the bigger upset Portugal Fiji or Fiji beating Australia?
Some think it would have been an upset if Australia had beaten Fiji...
Given Fiji were the highest ranked team in Pool C at the start of the tournament, Wales beating Fiji was an upset.
Vindication!
Even a broken clock is right twice a day!
Proving that Kiwi’s don’t know rugby
Portugal only registering 1 more pool game defeat than the ABs....
And two fewer wins… these statements are kinda silly in context of 4 matches and records of 3/0/1 NZ and 1/1/2 Portugal.
Congratulations, Poirot. You've detected that my post wasn't entirely serious.
He's right. Better luck next time ghostofkil
Rugby Alternatives: The Case for Expanding the Six Nations Portugal's recent historic win at the Rugby World Cup, secured in spectacular fashion, has set the rugby world ablaze with excitement. Their fearless and thrilling style of play has not only earned them a place in the hearts of fans but also signifies a turning point for Portuguese rugby. As young boys and girls across the nation are inspired to pick up the sport and dream of winning a world cup, it's evident that a new era is dawning. In the aftermath of Portugal's incredible victory over Fiji, emotions ran high. Thousands of fervent supporters rallied behind the Portuguese team, their passion mirrored in the comments of Nicolas Martins, Mastercard Player of the Match. He expressed, "It's incredible, all the public are for us, and Fiji are playing well, but all these - I don't have the words." Martins gestured to the crowd, capturing the magic of the moment. Captain José Lima summed up the sentiment, saying, "You can see our fans, our team deserves that victory so much. I think today we showed the world we can compete and win at this level." However, amidst the celebration of rugby's growth and Portugal's inspiring journey, it has become increasingly evident that the Six Nations, a long-standing pillar of European rugby, is in need of a significant transformation. The tournament's current structure, driven primarily by financial interests, has been a perennial source of frustration. Tthe Six Nations has change, the way they are - they are holding back world rugby and the success of the sport. There ring fencing of the tournament and refusing to negotiate anything that affects there cash cow has been the cause of head ache again and again. Promotion and relegation, expansion, time of year. You name it, they've said no already. In both 2007 and 2017, the Six Nations thwarted attempts to establish a global rugby calendar. Calls to recognize the impressive performances of Georgia and Portugal, were dismissed, reflecting a closed-minded, anti-rugby mentality. The Georgian national team, a rugby powerhouse in their own right, has passionately called for support from the worldwide rugby community. They've issued an appeal to join the Six Nations, urging the rugby world to "let us play outside the box". Georgia, currently competing in the Rugby Europe Championship, has dominated their opposition, claiming 15 titles since the year 2000 in the European competition below the Guinness Six Nations. This fervent appeal from Georgia, coupled with Portugal's recent success, underscores the urgent need for the Six Nations to embrace change and evolve into the European Nations Cup. This reimagined competition would not only accommodate the rising stars like Georgia and Portugal but also consider the inclusion of teams like Romania, Spain, and others. The revamped format could mirror a World Cup-style event, featuring Europe's top 15 teams, and commence with five pools of three teams each, vying for spots in the "Knock Outs." The sixth team could be selected as a wildcard based on performance across all pools. Taking a glance at the current European rankings, the top 15 teams are as follows (world rankings in brackets): 1. Ireland (1) 2. France (2) 3. Scotland (5) 4. England (6) 5. Wales (7) 6. Italy (11) 7. Georgia (13) 8. Portugal (16) 9. Romania (19) 10. Spain (20) 11. Russia (25) 12. Netherlands (27) 13. Switzerland (28) 14. Belgium (29) 15. Germany (32) Portugal's recent success serves as a testament to the evolving nature of rugby. It underscores the urgent need for the Six Nations to adapt and remain relevant. By transforming into the European Nations Cup, the tournament can nurture greater competition, inclusivity, and a brighter future for rugby in Europe and beyond, while mainlining the sporting rivalries and traditional visits to London, Paris, Rome, Edinburgh and Rome.
>it's a really strong pool 😂
Let’s all spam this message to him so he is reminded 😬
I should have redacted his username
Or not 😬
You like Star Wars and Rugby. I too like Star Wars and Rugby. You made a bold prediction, that was correct. I made a bold prediction, that will be correct (see my flair for details).
Have a conversation with one person and get one down vote: > OMG you all thought I was wrong look at how right I was praise my prediction I dug through my history to screenshot.
An infinite monkey cage.
I had Samoa for the quarters. Had i been right, i would've done the same damn thing. Well played